Both you and your partner are excited about the upcoming member of the family, your baby. You go to the mall and head on to the baby's section only to get overwhelmed by seeing all the good stuff. So you ask your partner to choose which to splurge on and which to skip. Here is a guide on what baby gear
really need and what should be skipped.
Baby Gear to Splurge on
Some things are worth the investment. To give you a guide, items that ensure your baby's safety is what needs splurging. Sure they are expensive, but if it assures you of your child's safety and comfort, then why not?
Car Seat
If you are thinking of buying a cheap car seat, then think again. It is one of the first few things that you should buy. Other hospitals would not let your baby go home without a car seat. The reason? Car seats ensure the safety of your baby. No, do not buy or borrow second-hand car seats because they have expiration dates. An expired car seat will not perform at its peak. When they say expired car seat, it means that the material used might be brittle already as it is past its best state. You want your baby safe and comfy during his ride home.
Stroller
Choose a stroller that will fit your traveling needs. Some moms would prefer lightweight and easy to maneuver with one hand because they constantly move from one place to another. Others love strolling along gravel roads, so they would prefer the sturdy and heavyweight style. A stroller is another item that you would want to splurge on since it carries your baby around, and you may still use it for future babies.
Baby Carrier
Next on the list that you should purchase for a good price is the baby carrier. Of course, you want your baby safe and snug while your two hands are free to move around the house. A carrier will not only make you feel secure, but even your baby would not have a hard time falling asleep in the baby carrier. Choose one that your partner is comfortable too.
Breast Pump (For Breastfeeding Moms)
If you soon head back to work after your maternity leave, you might want to buy a good breast pump. Pricey breast pumps give the mom comfort and, at the same time, make your baby's belly full. If you would not be using the pump in the future, you may sell it as a second-hand so that it would not just get stuck in the storeroom.
Crib Sheets
Babies are safer when they sleep on their cribs. Soft, cute, and made to last crib sheets are worth the splurging.
Glider Chair
There are different types of glider chair - rocking, gliding, swiveling, or reclining. It can be used for feeding, rocking or reading. Choose the one that best suits you and your baby.
Baby Gear to Skip
There are so many adorable baby things, but not all are meant to be bought. The following items are those that are nice-to-have but are not worth the payment.
Crib Bumper and Bedding
A crib bumper should not be in your baby's crib because any loose bedding can cause suffocation, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. During sleep time, the only thing that should be in the crib is the fitted bed sheet and your baby.
Bottle Sterilizer
A bottle sterilizer is not a necessity since bottles can be sterilized by dropping them and other bottle parts into boiling water on the stove, and they work just the same.
Bottle warmer
Some babies have preferences when it comes to milk temperature. If you need to warm fast, the bottle warmer is the thing, but hot water from the faucet can also make your baby happy.
Wipe warmer
Some parents are afraid that their babies get cold when using room temperature wet wipes. But one should bear in mind that if left unused for a long time, the wipe warmer can dry out, which could cause overheating. Also, you would not have time to use the wipe warmer when you are busy and on the run.
Changing Table
Any table or flat surface can be used to change diapers. You just need to buy a comfortable diaper changing mat.
Bassinet
Bassinets are a great replacement to cribs, especially if your room has limited space. However, it would be a waste of money since babies outgrow them very easily. If you would, just buy a travel crib, which can also be used when your baby needs to nap in the living room.
Feeding Pillow
Infant feeding pillows are helpful when nursing or feeding a baby. However, most moms use ordinary pillows instead of buying the expensive feeding pillow. Some moms even nurse while walking or shopping.
Nursing Cape
Breastfeeding in public can sometimes make a mom feel exposed, but any normal blanket or shawl can cover you up much like the pricey nursing capes.
Burp Cloths
Even if your baby spits up a lot, you need cloths to use every day. But that does not mean you have to buy many burp cloths, because any simple cloth is good. You may use any soft cloth because it will touch your baby's soft skin.
